Rise in cases of depression, anxiety
SAIMA HAMID
Depression is a common mental disorder that affects millions of people around the world, and Jammu and Kashmir is no exception. Prolonged unrest along with economic hardships as well as prevalence of drugs has led to a spike in the cases of depression here.
Depression is a mental disorder that is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and a lack of energy or motivation. It is a leading cause of disability worldwide and can have a significant impact on an individual’s personal and professional life. In Jammu and Kashmir, depression is a widespread problem that affects people from all walks of life.
According to a study conducted by the Government Medical College in Srinagar, the prevalence of depression in Jammu and Kashmir is around 16.6%. The study also found that depression was more common in women than men, with a prevalence rate of 20.3% in women and 13.2% in men.
The causes of depression in Jammu and Kashmir are multifactorial. The prolonged conflict in the region, political instability, and economic uncertainty are some of the major contributors to depression in the region. The high levels of violence and trauma that people have experienced over the years have also had a significant impact on the mental health of its residents. In addition to external factors, there are also several internal factors that contribute to depression including poor socioeconomic conditions, lack of social support, and a lack of access to mental health care.
Despite the high prevalence of depression here, lack of awareness about the disorder in the region is still high while as stigma surrounding mental health is also prevalent, and many people do not seek help for fear of being judged or ostracized. However, there are several effective treatments available for depression, including medication, psychotherapy, and self-help strategies. In Kashmir, access to mental health care is limited, and there is a significant shortage of mental health professionals.
The government of India has taken some steps to address the mental health crisis in Jammu and Kashmir as the National Mental Health Program has been implemented in the region, which aims to provide accessible and affordable mental health care to the population. The program focuses on building community-based mental health services and training mental health professionals to provide quality care. In addition to government initiatives, several NGOs and community-based organizations are also working to address the mental health crisis in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Jammu and Kashmir Mental Health Society is one such organization that provides mental health services to the population. The organization has established several mental health centers in the region and provides counselling and therapy services to those in need. Self-help strategies such as exercise, mindfulness, and social support can also be effective in managing depression. However, access to these resources is limited, which makes it challenging for people to manage their mental health effectively.
In conclusion, depression is a significant mental health problem in Jammu and Kashmir, with a high prevalence rate and a significant impact on the population. The causes of depression in the region are multifactorial, with both external and internal factors contributing to the problem. However, there are effective treatments available for depression, and initiatives by the government and NGOs are underway to address the mental health crisis in the region. It is essential to increase awareness about depression and reduce stigma surrounding mental health to ensure that people in Jammu.
The author is working as a teacher in Opinawaz high school Kulgamand can be mailed at [email protected]
